In the hall, Mara Gulun is intoning the welcome. "... and be welcome, supplicants, to this hall," she says, as Hian and Rohin hide behind the throng of townsfolk. Mara Gulun turns to face the altar, where the glimmergifts have been placed. She takes a lighted wick from an attendant. "These gifts as an offering," she says. "Prayers for the people." She touches the first pot, lighting the contents. "Health and healing." The next pot, "new life and new households,"and the third pot, "safety in travel," and the fourth, "and prosperity for us all." Hian glances round and spots Nikhil, standing with a group of young people. He turns to see her, blanches, and pushes through them. "Now, for those who wish to make specific offerings," Mara Gulun says, "please line up and wait for one of the Thysians to be available."